Paul Bongiovanni, controller of the Diocese of Oakland since 2008, has been named chief financial officer. Bongiovanni succeeds Mike Canizzaro, who is retiring after 15 years of service to the diocese.

The search committee included several pastors and the vicar general, as well as representatives from the Finance Council and the business community, a statement by the diocese said.

"After consultation with the College of Consultors, the Bishop's Administrative Council and the Diocesan Finance Council, I am convinced Paul Bongiovanni is the right person to lead this critical position," the bishop said in the statement. "His 30 years of financial management in varied positions are an invaluable asset to the Diocese of Oakland."

In addition to his years at the diocese, during which he built supportive relationships with parishes, Bongiovanni has experience in nonprofit management with Concord's Family Stress Center, Catholic Youth Organization of the Archdiocese of San Francisco and as controller of Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County.

Bongiovanni has also worked for The Clorox Co. and Grant Thornton LLP.

Canizzaro served 15 years in the diocese as director of financial services and for the past 11 as chief financial officer.